12 New Year's Cruise Resolutions

Sticking to the resolutions you make can improve the quality of your life, and the same is true for your vacations. We compiled a list of New Year’s cruise resolutions--plus some tips on how to keep them-- so you can get the most out of your time at sea. How many can you keep?

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1. I won’t hog deck chairs.

It drives cruisers insane when there are more chairs occupied by towels than people, so don’t contribute to the cycle.

5. I will pack lighter.

6. I will try a new cruise line.

We respect the loyalty, but sticking to the same line can be kind of like always staying in the same hotel whenever you travel to a new city: safe, but somewhat boring. Broaden your horizons by comparing the strengths of the lines or taking our Cruise Line Quiz.

7. I will sail to a new port.

8. I will learn more about cruise ships.

You may know the best restaurants and entertainment onboard, but how much do you really know about the inner workings of the ship? Study up here, and take this ship quiz to test your knowledge.

Photo by Thinkstock

9. I will start preparing for my cruise in advance.

No more scrambling around a few days before your cruise to make sure everything is in order. Use this checklist to start getting ready a full month before you set sail.

Photo by Iakov Kalini

10. I will get back to ship on time.

Make sure you know exactly when you need to be back on the ship (remember that ship time and shore time can be different) and get there at least half an hour before, lest you wind up like these folks.

Photo by Seabourn

11. I will recognize the crew for their hard work.

Crew members work hard to give you a good vacation and tipping properly is the best possible way of saying thanks.

Photo by repinanatoly / Thinkstock

12. I will strongly consider protecting my cruise investment.

We regularly get reviews from members who booked a cruise and never got off dry land thanks to a missed flight or a forgotten passport. Do yourself a favor, and at least consider buying travel insurance for your cruise.